Remembering Gary Krantz
• We were deeply saddened to hear that Gary Krantz, a longtime friend and colleague to many in our industry, passed away on January 21, 2025. He was 65.
Gary Andrew Krantz was born on Dec. 29, 1959 in Queens, New York, to Jack and Lila Krantz. He grew up in Queens, NY and White Meadow Lake, NJ, and later went to Emerson College and led a very successful career in the radio industry. Among his many accomplishments, Krantz served as EVP of MJI Broadcasting, Chief Digital Officer of Westwood One, President of Air America Radio, EVP of Premiere Radio Networks for Clear Channel, and EVP of AMFM Radio Networks. More recently he was Founder & CEO of Krantz Media Group, and Managing Partner of Podcast Radio.
A statement from Gary’s family reads, in part: “Gary was known for his sense of humor, his style, and his generosity. He loved Bruce Springsteen, the beach, and his three kids. He spent much of his time embracing life. He would say, ‘I could never just stay home at my apartment, because when you walk outside, that’s when things happen.’
To his kids, he was their rock. He was an iconic legend. He introduced his children to music, his Jewish culture, and knowing exactly what to say at the right time.
Krantz is survived by his mother, Lila Krantz, his brothers Scott and Mark Krantz, his children, Michael, Jane, and Jacqueline Krantz, who will continue to honor his legacy.”
A memorial service will be held this Sunday Jan. 26, at 2:30pm at Riverside Memorial Chapel, 180 West 76th Street, New York, NY 10023. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Gary’s memory to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
The Krantz family would like to express their gratitude for your support during this difficult time.
